Pakistan Studies/Affairs MCQs
Topic Notes: Pakistan Studies/Affairs
MCQs and preparation resources for competitive exams, covering important concepts, past papers, and detailed explanations.
Plato
- Biography: Ancient Greek philosopher (427–347 BCE), student of Socrates and teacher of Aristotle, founder of the Academy in Athens.
- Important Ideas:
- Theory of Forms
- Philosopher-King
- Ideal State
1
What is the primary reason for 'Urbanization' in Pakistan as of 2025?
Answer:
Search for economic opportunities and better service delivery in cities
Urbanization in Pakistan is 'Opportunity Driven'. The concentration of industries, universities, and specialized hospitals in cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad acts as a 'Pull Factor,' drawing millions from the neglected rural hinterlands who seek to join the formal and informal labour markets of the metropolises.
2
In 2024-2025, 'Digital Nomad' visas in other countries have allowed many Pakistani freelancers to:
Answer:
Live abroad while working for their global clients legally
The 'Digital Nomad' trend has seen many young Pakistani IT and creative professionals move to countries like Dubai, Portugal, or Thailand while keeping their Pakistani residency. This 'virtual migration' allows them to earn in dollars and provides them with global exposure, though the government is working to provide similar facilities within Pakistan's STZs.
3
Which Pakistani institution manages the 'Employees Old-Age Benefits Institution' (EOBI) for pensions?
Answer:
Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and HRD
EOBI is the national pension fund for the private sector. Employers and employees contribute a monthly fee, and in return, the workers receive a monthly pension after retirement. In 2024-2025, the government increased the EOBI pension amount to help retirees cope with the rising cost of living.
4
The 'GSP Plus' status of Pakistan is linked to which labour issue?
Answer:
Compliance with core ILO conventions, including the ban on child labour
The European Union's GSP Plus trade preference is conditional upon Pakistan implementing 27 international conventions. A major portion of these relate to 'Labour Rights', including the elimination of child labour, freedom of association (unions), and ending discrimination in the workplace.
5
Which province has the largest number of 'Brick Kiln' workers, a group often associated with bonded labour?
Answer:
Punjab
Punjab has the highest concentration of brick kilns in South Asia. For decades, this sector was plagued by the 'Peshgi' (advance payment) system which led to debt bondage. However, since 2016 and continuing through 2025, the Punjab government has implemented strict laws to register these workers and enroll their children in schools.
6
The 'Protection of Wages Act' aims to ensure that workers are paid:
Answer:
Through formal bank accounts or digital wallets to prevent exploitation
To stop the exploitation of labourers, recent provincial laws require employers to pay wages through formal banking or digital channels. This creates a digital record of payment, making it easier for the labour department to ensure that the 'Minimum Wage' is being actually paid to the workers.
7
Which city is the primary landing point for migrants returning from the Gulf for 'Deportation' due to visa issues?
Answer:
Karachi
Karachi's Jinnah International Airport is the primary hub for 'emergency' arrivals and deportations. The FIA and OPF maintain special cells at this airport to process and provide initial support to workers who are sent back due to the 'Kafala' system issues or irregular documentation.
8
The 'OEC' (Overseas Employment Corporation) is a:
Answer:
Government-owned recruitment agency
OEC is a state-owned entity that manages 'Government to Government' recruitment. It is the preferred channel for sending workers to South Korea, Japan, and European countries that have formal labor treaties with Pakistan, ensuring zero recruitment fees and high safety for the workers.
9
What is the 'Participation Rate' of the urban vs rural labour force in Pakistan?
Answer:
Rural is slightly higher due to agricultural engagement
The Labour Force Participation Rate is generally slightly higher in rural areas. This is because in rural communities, the entire family, including women and elderly, is often involved in subsistence farming or livestock management, whereas in urban areas, participation is more restricted to formal employment.
10
Which Pakistani airline is the designated 'National Carrier' for the repatriation of workers during global crises?
Answer:
Pakistan International Airlines (PIA)
Despite its financial struggles, PIA remains the primary airline used by the state for emergency evacuations of the labour force. This was seen during the Yemen conflict, the COVID-19 pandemic, and the recent unrest in Sudan, where PIA operated special flights to bring Pakistani workers home.